1989 Bedford Rascal 997cc from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Faults:

Heating has never worked except with heating switch and fan switch both on full. Also you have to drive a LONG way before it even starts to heat up at all.

Back brake pads needed replacing at 80,000 miles. Front pads have just been replaced at 100,000 miles (30 pounds including labour).

Handbrake cable snapped at 90,000 miles (32 pounds including labour).

Radiator bust at about 90,000 miles (I think it was 60-80 pounds for a reconditioned one including labour).

Exhaust had a hole in it (rust) again at about 90,000 miles. Cost about 25 pounds to replace the section.

Back wiper and cigarette lighter have never worked.

RUST is a problem, the wheel arches are about to fall off at the moment!

General Comments:

This van is seriously slow, but it's so reliable and I love it. OK, a few things have gone wrong, but the parts have been so inexpensive.

It's perfect for carrying small loads; I am a keyboard player. I shouldn't be saying this, but a few weeks ago I got 10 or 11 hitchers in it, and it didn't seem to do it any harm!

Last night it failed to start for the first time ever; I found this website whilst checking out other cars & vans; now after reading other Rascal comments, I think I'll try and get it fixed! I just think it needs a new carburettor; if that's the case, I'll replace the terribly rusty wheel arches, and hey presto, the phoenix will arise!